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States/Washington/Security Deposit
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Washington renter guide

Washington Security Deposit Rules (2026)

Washington’s statewide deposit framework is unusually document-heavy: a written lease and signed move-in checklist are prerequisites to collecting a deposit, the money must be held in a qualifying trust arrangement, and damage deductions require specific support after move-out.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20263 primary sources cited
Move-in checklistRequired before deposit

RCW 59.18.260 requires a signed condition/cleanliness checklist when a deposit is collected.

Post-move-out statement30 days

Statement, supporting documentation and refund due under RCW 59.18.280.

Ordinary useNot deductible

Wear resulting from ordinary use cannot be withheld from the deposit.

Damage supportInvoices / estimates

Washington requires documentation reasonably substantiating damage charges.

What to collect before reviewing a deduction

  • Signed move-in checklist.
  • Written rental agreement and deposit terms.
  • Deposit receipt and trust-account/depository notice.
  • Move-out statement, invoices, estimates, receipts and landlord labor details.

Local rules can add protections

Washington’s statewide Residential Landlord-Tenant Act is the baseline. Cities can add tenant protections, so a Seattle or other local dispute may require an additional local-law check.

Local rules can be stricter. This guide summarizes the statewide Residential Landlord-Tenant Act. City-level protections may add deposit, fee, notice or move-out requirements.

Official sources

Washington State LegislatureRCW 59.18.260 — written agreement and move-in checklist ↗

Primary law requiring a written rental agreement and signed condition checklist before a landlord collects a deposit, and prohibiting withholding for wear from ordinary use.

Washington State LegislatureRCW 59.18.270 — deposit trust account ↗

Primary law requiring security deposits to be placed in a Washington trust account or qualifying escrow arrangement, with receipt and depository notice.

Washington State LegislatureRCW 59.18.280 — 30-day statement, documentation and refund ↗

Primary law for the 30-day statement/refund deadline, invoice and estimate support, carpet-cleaning limits and remedies.

Related Washington guides

30-Day Deposit Rule →Move-In Checklist →Damage Documentation →Wear & Carpet Cleaning →